Do Music Degrees Really Pay Off?

A year after graduating with a music degree, many emerging artists find themselves asking the same question: after years of studying, creating, and balancing performances with student life, has it actually helped them get closer to where they want to be? 

Sarah Winter is a singer-songwriter who graduated from BIMM Brighton with a degree in vocals. Like many music courses, her degree offered a mix of specialist skills alongside broader industry knowledge. In January 2026, she released her debut single ‘I Don’t Hate You’ and independently put on her own event at The Folklore Rooms in Brighton, collaborating with artists she met during her studies. Now, a year on from graduating, she is navigating the realities of building a career in music. 

Speaking about her day-to-day life, Sarah describes a shift away from structured education towards self-management and discipline. “Right now I basically try to plan what I'm going to do for the next day, which is mainly just seeking opportunities, writing emails to people, trying to get radio interviews and more shows.”